Rainbow Trout are targeted by fishermen more than any of the other trout species. They are native only to the pacific slope of North America, but have been widely introduced to every continent except Antartica.

Rainbow trout prefer cool, clear streams and lakes, but can also be found in well oxygenated lakes and ponds. Rainbows prefer water from 55 to 60 F, and will tolerate temperatures up to 75 F. Their diet consists mainly of flies, fish eggs, crawfish and other terrestrials. In the wild, most varieties of rainbows spawn in the spring, however, spawning can occur anytime of the year in certain systems. Spawning takes place in small tributaries, often at the inlet or outlet of a lake or major river confluence.

Rainbows usually hold in tail outs, riffles and holes during the spring, summer and fall seasons. Most fish will feed on mayflies, caddis and terrestrials for the majority of this season. As water temperatures begin to drop during late fall, many trout will migrate to deeper water where they can survive the winter.

The fly fishing obsession for rainbow trout in North American stems from the aggressive strikes and high flying acrobatics of this unique species. With their expansive distribution it has been easier for anglers throughout the world to personally identify with these fish. Nearly 60% of all fly fishermen in the western hemisphere target rainbow trout above all other freshwater species.
Stocking of rainbow trout has long been a debatable issue. Decisions on whether to stock or not to stock are based on information collected and analyzed by fishery biologists. Anglers who prefer catching wild trout often worry that undue emphasis on trout in the creel and on stocking programs, will result in the neglect of natural resources. Biologists and fishery managers understand the value of wild trout and of the habitat that supports them. Efforts are being made by fishery managers to improve habitat so more wild trout can be produced, and fewer fish will be raised in hatcheries.

Learn more about:

Cutthroat Trout

Bull Trout

Idaho Fly Fishing